T1-T8: Vertebrae of the Breath
By Chris Brown
Experiencing difficulty breathing or a tight chest? You may want a chiropractor to evaluate your T1-T8 vertebra for subluxations. Below the C1-C5 and C5-C7 cervical spinal segments, the mid-back's upper thoracic spine is responsible for housing nerves with functions less neurologic in nature such as those with the chest, abdomen and respiratory system. Whereas the cervical and lumbar vertebrae naturally curve inward, the thoracic vertebrae have a slight outward curve to make room for the organs which the nerves also connect. Learning about the value of adjusting the upper thoracic vertebrae is important to maintaining health throughout the key function areas of the upper body.
T1: The Transition Vertebra
Although part of the thoracic vertebrae, the T1 vertebra shares similar shape and nerve qualities with the neighboring cervical vertebrae. It's nerves, for example, extend beyond the chest into the upper arms, and can cause arm strength loss if injured. It also is the only vertebra to directly connect to the first rib and has nerves particularly integral to brachial plexus (for breathing). Thus, T1 subluxations can result in chest discomfort and respiratory issues.
T2-T8: The Typical Vertebrae
The T2-T8 section of spine are known as "typical" vertebrae because of their relatively similar appearance and size. The ribs connect in the spaces between each thoracic vertebra and so these play a role in rib articulation. Because of this integration, a traumatic rib injury often causes secondary injuries to thoracic vertebrae and additional complications. The nerves housed in the T2-T8 vertebrae extend out into the chest, abdomen, and, accordingly, aid in breathing.
Thoracic T1-T8 Injuries and Chiropractic Support
Because the upper thoracic vertebrae are so closely tied to nerves of the chest, ribs, and respiratory system, injuries create symptomatic problems in these areas and the organs housed within. For example, a severe rib injury commonly causes a thoracic vertebral injury which, in turn, causes painful and inhibited breathing from two sources: first, because a rib is hurt, and second, because of the respiratory nerve dysfunctions from the displaced vertebrae. However, severe spinal cord injuries in the T2-T8 section often leave breathing functionality intact, despite resulting in paralysis from the waist down. Most subluxations, though, can be corrected by chiropractic manipulation, which could improve symptoms related not just to respiratory health, but also the heart, gall bladder, stomach, liver and pancreas as well.
The Joint Chiropractic offers affordable, walk-in sessions to keep your thoracic vertebrae in health. Doctors at The Joint are experienced in spotting irregularities and subluxations of the spine and joints. By correcting these problem points, many health problems will resolve, and the body can work optimally. So stop by The Joint today for a thoracic overhaul.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Houston, Tex.